Ice damming is a serious problem for homeowners in climates like we have in Edmonton. Especially in spring. In spring, it is common to have a warm spell and then everything freezes again. This can happen several times before the weather finally breaks and we start to get some beautiful spring weather.

The problem is, this can be very hard on your roof. What is happening on your roof to cause those early spring leaks?

When the snow on your roof starts to melt the water starts to shed to the eaves (bottom edge) of your roof and then as it cools down again and freezes, it creates what we call an Ice Dam. As this process continues the Ice Dam builds up on your roof. Ice is more dense than snow and melts at a slower rate. With a dam of ice building on the edge of your roof, the water that the snow is creating has nowhere to go, so it starts to work its way under your shingles and into the roof decking.

We all know what happens when water gets under your roofing system and the results aren't pretty. Thankfully there are ways to prevent this from happening. The best way to prevent Ice Damming from penetrating your roof is to insure that Ice and Water Shield is installed on your roof when you get your shingles replaced.

Unfortunately not everyone has the money to put a new roof on their home this year. If this is happening to your roof, but you don't have the money to replace your roof, here are a few tips to keep the Ice at bay.

#1 Remove the snow from your roof before the spring thaw

#2 Purchase some heat wire to string up on your eaves to melt the ice buildups

#3 Clean out your Gutter system to insure that water can flow properly during the melt.

If you do need a new roof this year, you know who to call. Give Matthew Dyck a call from Silverstarr Roofing and Renovations to get a free estimate. 780-900-3514

My suggestion to all of my customers! Get three Quotes, and compare them. Some of the first things you should be asking an estimator;

#1 Do you have insurance?

#2 Do you have WCB Coverage?

#3 Do you have some references I can call?

After you gather this information form each estimator, and you receive the Quote, you'll want to go though each estimate and look for the following things;

#1 Drip Edge - A metal flashing that goes along your eaves. This directs water away from your Facia boards and into your gutters.

​#2 Eave Guard - Also known as Ice and Water Shield, this is a self adhering membrane that goes along your eaves to prevent Ice Damming in the winter. Ice damming occurs when the snow on your roof starts to melt and then freezes again. When the water freezes it begins to work its way under the shingles and into the roof. This is also installed in your valleys, around skylights and around chimneys.

#3 Synthetic Underlayment - Used as an extra layer of protection from the elements and also considered a fire barrier, Synthetic replaced felt paper as an underlayment because of its superior breathability, fire resistance, and durability.

#4 Venting - It is extremely important to have the proper amount of airflow in your attic. Roof Vents insure that your roof is breathing properly. When you breathe you inhale and you exhale, a roof needs to be able to do the same thing. It isn't sufficient to simply install vents at the top of the roof, you must also pay attention to the venting at the bottom of the roof. ​

​#5 Starter Shingles - This shingle is made to prevent shingle blow-off. It has a strip of tar running along it that, when heated by the sun, sticks to the shingle above it. The second function of the starter shingle is to prevent wavy gable lines. Nothing looks more unprofessional then crooked lines.

​#6 Shingles - There are a wide variety of shingles on the market today. Make sure that the shingle manufacturer and the model of shingle is specified on your estimate. Some of the well known manufacturers are BP Canada, Malarkey, Owens Corning, GAF, Certainteed, and IKOThere prices and quality very and you will need to do some homework before you decide on a brand.Or give me a shout on my cell 780-240-4090 and I can help you with all your questions.

#7 Ridge Cap - This is the the final touch on the installation. This shingle covers your hips and ridges, proper installation practice is to install away from the wind to prevent blow off.